New York State Budget Alert

The 2014-2015 New York State Executive Budget is currently under review by the New York State Legislature, including proposed funding for the colleges of the City University of New York.

To:

Members and Friends of the CUNY Community

From:

Jay Hershenson,Senior Vice Chancellor for University Relations and Secretary and Board Secretary

Date:

Jan. 30, 2014

We need you to visit www.supportcuny.org now to communicate to legislators the importance of investing in public higher education.

As Interim Chancellor Kelly noted in his statement on the Executive Budget, "The recommended budget provides financial stability and a number of important opportunities to build upon the University's strengths and assets. We look forward to working closely with the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature to further discuss the University's budgetary needs as the review process continues."

In the last decade, CUNY enrollment has grown by thirty percent, including record increases at the community colleges. CUNY is seeking a community college base aid increase of at least $250 per FTE to meet this growing need. The additional support will provide funding for services to improve student success, including graduation. In addition, for the both the senior and community colleges we are seeking the expansion of successful programs like Single Stop, the Black Male Initiative, ASAP, College Now and CUNY START. It is also critical for the University to meet the important needs of veterans and disabled students on campus through increased operating aid.

For the CUNY capital budget, funding is needed for the creation of modern and safe classrooms that meet today's educational technology standards. Capital projects are key to academic growth, classroom instruction, research capacity and laboratory and library work.

Please contact legislators while the budget process is under way by visiting www.supportcuny.org or just by clicking on a letter below, or by using your own letter. The letters have been drafted to concentrate on CUNY budget priorities. State government leaders by law must pass the budget by April 1, 2014. The time to communicate is now!

Thank you for help and support.

Jay Hershenson

Senior Vice Chancellor for University Relations and Secretary and Board Secretary